This dress has a classic pencil silhouette, but is updated with a crisp white background and one of Trina’s signature, eye-catching prints. I was impressed that this 100% silk, fully-lined dress (from a designer collab., nonetheless) is priced at $130 retail. Details like the twist-straps, side pockets, and sash tie belt (not shown) are added bonuses.This dress features the “crazy botanical” print which is chock-full of color in sea-life designs (see this adorable video with ASPCA rescue dogs for the other prints). It’s extremely easy to pair – you can take any one of the myriad of colors within the print and make it a point of focus, or use a closet neutral like basic black or warm brown, which also appear within the print.

The entire collection will be available in petite sizing, which is a nice surprise. I am showing a 0P here (measures 15.5″ across chest, 13″ across waist, 18″ across hips, and 33.5″ total length) which fits roomy throughout the torso, but actually measures smaller than my AT size 00P dress here. From my experience, BR sheath dresses in general fit smaller than AT’s. I think one size down in this would be a perfect fit for someone with my measurements, but keep in mind the 100% silk does not stretch.If any of you also got these H&M; highlighter yellow sandals, you may have noticed they look a little different. I love how sultry ankle straps look, but the original width of these ankle cuffs truncated my short calves. I took on a risky DIY project and took apart the cuff, narrowing the strap to about 1/3rd of the original width and super-gluing the pieces back together. It took a long two hours and I’m very happy with the results, but probably won’t attempt it again! I’ll try to show some “before” and “in-process” photos the next time I wear them.After years of studying, I’m so relieved to be done with the CFA exam this weekend. I truly hope that this third one is also the final one, and that Jan-June next year will be enjoyable : ) Thank you for your patience over the months and I look forward to responding to questions and comments on here again. My inbox is a bit more daunting – I apologize if you don’t hear back for a while but I will be working through it.

Readers – Will you be shopping this collection? Which piece is your favorite?

Oh wow, I'm definitely excited for the collection now! I absolutely adore the print! It reminds me of (hopefully a more affordable) version of a Tibi dress I saw on Wendy. And also, well done on the heels! Congrats on being done with your test!

Anonymous
June 3, 2012 at 10:01 pm

The dress and you are both beautiful but even with the belt on, the dress is too big for you. This is so obvious in the first three photos. The armholes are perfect, but the hips and torso on the dress are cut too big for your body, you don't look like your usual polished, well-tailored self. I love that you added a pop of yellow, but I think that this dress is a great candidate for tailoring.

katherine
June 3, 2012 at 10:03 pm

congrats with finishing your exams! my friends are starting to study for level 1 and it is quite daunting!if you don't mind me asking, what finance field are you in? i'd love to know more about your successful career!

Congrats, Jean! Can't wait to see regular updates from you again. : ) LOVE this dress on you. I originally chose a top in a similar pattern when they contacted me, but they replied a few days later saying it's not available for Canada. *sad face* All your accessories look beautiful with the dress! And I'm very interested in seeing how you altered those shoes. It looks very risky, especially with just glue! I still haven't found it in smaller sizes yet, but I guess it's for the better. Eying the strappy colourblock sandals from Zara now. haha

Anonymous
June 3, 2012 at 10:23 pm

AHHHH im so proud of you!i'm studying this summer for my CPA, and will definitely be distracted by your posts haha

That dress is gorgeous on you and I love the Pocket details and the prints! Good job with the DIY and making those sandals petite friendly! Would definitely like to see the process and also know if you stitched it or glued it together.

That print is drool-worthy. I've been eyeing it on spokesmodel, Coco Rocha, ever since they started promoting the collection in magazines. Will you be altering the torso or leaving it kind of blouse-y? I am VERY excited about checking it out in stores and trying a few pieces on!

Also, I'm incredibly impressed on your shoe alteration! You, my friend, are born with quite the creative streak. They turned out beautifully 🙂

such a fun print and i am lovinggg those bright yellow shoes! amazed that you altered them too :O elegant chic outfit Jean =D

Laura x

demure-porcelain.blogspot.com

Anonymous
June 4, 2012 at 12:08 am

Oh no… did I see a post here that said the dress wouldn't be available in Canada. 🙁 Hope that's not true. I have a feeling it won't look good on me, but sure would love to try it. I think it's an awesome dress for weddings, and just to wear to work and out on the town!

Congrats! I was initially going to sit out on this collection but seeing the dress you have on has change my mind. I love the print on the dress. Also, I'm very impressed on you by your shoe alternation. You have amazing skills.

Anonymous
June 4, 2012 at 1:04 am

I think you look nice in this dress but I get the feeling it isn't something you would normally choose